Extension

Happy New Year!

This year of 2014 marks an important milestone in the history of the Cooperative Extension Service, as we celebrate the Smith-Lever Act, which established Extension back in 1914.

The Smith-Lever Act began a unique educational partnership between the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the nation’s land-grant universities that extends research-based knowledge through a state-by-state network of extension educators.

Cold temperatures, snow and muddy walkways may be in our future for winter this year, but I have a plant that will bring color and liven up the dreariest of winter days—the amaryllis.

Amaryllis is a member of the lily family, and is available in a range of colors, including pink, white, red, orange and variegated.

This plant grows from a large bulb, making it well suited for blooming during the colder months of the year.

During the holiday break parents and grandparents can share many happy fun activities.

Outdoor play is still important, but doing indoor activities in the warmth of the home is more enticing.

Think for a moment about how to make the best use of your children’s indoor time. What are your children’s interests? What are they able to do developmentally?

Buying expensive items is unnecessary. There are many things right in your own home or garage that you can use for activities to do with your children and the rest of the family, too.

As I go into Cartmell Elementary this month and in January, the students will be given information about the proper way to research and present a speech or a demonstration.

In February each student will present their speech or demonstration in front of their classmates and community members who volunteer to judge their presentations. If they receive a blue ribbon, they will have the opportunity to continue to the county level and, from there, on to the district and state level.